Hi,

I'm new to Filemaker. Now that it's more relational I want to use it to develop a database for the department. I downloaded the trial version 7 and have some questions;

1. I need to run some external scripts (.vbs) as part of a db application. Do I need the developer version to do that? In any case, what's the command to execute a .vbs script?

2. I assume I use SQL to manipulate tables, are there any issues with Filemaker's implementation I should be aware of?

Probably a lot more to ask as I get into it.

Thanks,

Jerry Parlee

Psych Dept UT Austin

FileMaker Version: 7

Platform: Windows XP

Hello Jerry,

Welcome to FileMaker - and to the forum!

Some quick answers to your questions:

1. It is possible to call VBscripts from within FileMaker's internal ScriptMaker scripts, using the FileMaker 7 script command Send Event [ ] - and no, you won't require the Developer version for that.

2. No, FileMaker is not based on SQL. FileMaker has its own internal function and command syntax and relational definitions framework. Much of it can be accessed directly within FileMaker's various dialogs (Define Database, ScriptMaker etc) so you will need to browse there and familiarise yourself. Though some of the concepts will be familiar, FileMaker has its own way of getting things done which may take a little getting used to at first. However if you stick with it, you'll find it will be well worth the effort.

Ray beat me to it. I would add:

1. You may be interested in fmconnector:

http://www.datavations.com/dvpages/products/fmconnector.cfm

http://home.wanadoo.nl/zteve/links.html

2. FileMaker can be used to communicate with SQL, but that's a whole other story. Internally you don't use anything like SQL.

Thanks, that was quick.

I'll play with the SendEvent.

Ok, so SQL only to talk to an external ODBC table.

BTW, vbsript and VBA have virtually no connection, thank you MS, again...